Sandblasting is the process of using a sandblaster to remove or etch surfaces with sand. Air compressors are used for professional jobs, while siphon sandblasters are suitable for DIY glass etching. Safety precautions are necessary due to the dangers of working with abrasive particles. Sandblasting is a learned technique, and sandblasting kits and stencil kits are available for crafters and hobbyists.
Sandblasting is the technique of using a special tool, called a sandblaster, to remove or etch surfaces with sand. For most professional sandblasting jobs, an air compressor blasts silica sand onto the metal or glass surface at high speed. DIY sandblasting uses a siphon sandblaster, which is less powerful than an air compressor but very suitable for glass etching and small sandblasting jobs. Glass sandblasting is the method of etching or smoothing the glass surface with millions of tiny particles of silica sand at high speed.
Etched and decorative glass is beautiful and holds designs better than painted glass. Craftsmen and hobbyists can obtain sandblasting kits at home improvement centers or rental stores. The kits contain a ceramic nozzle, a rubber tube and a collection tube. The siphon system draws sand from a bucket into the collection tube and hose, where the sand is ejected when the nozzle trigger is pulled. Sandblast stencil kits are also available, allowing the do-it-yourselfer to quickly and easily create beautiful etched glass work.
Sandblasting was invented in the 1850s by American Benjamin Chew Tilghman, who saw the technique as a method for cleaning boilers, sharpening files and etching glass bottles. Different grades of sand produce different effects. Fine silica sand blasted into glass produces delicate patterns. Larger silica grains are more suitable for cleaning corroded metals and cleaning large surface areas. Each blasting method requires a mechanism, usually a compressor, to produce enough air pressure to eject the sand at very high speeds and under intense pressure.
There are dangers in working with tiny abrasive particles at very high pressures, so glass sandblasting can be dangerous if safety precautions are not observed. The pressure of the equipment and the resistant hardness of the glass surface pulverize the silica into a fine powder. Dust can cause respiratory problems if inhaled. Safety goggles, ear defenders and a respirator protect the user’s sensitive eyes, ears and throat from erosive sand particles. Thick leather gloves, boots, leggings, and overalls protect the user’s body from errant blasts.
Sandblasting glass is a learned technique. The stencils provide a guide, but managing nozzle direction and spray intensity requires some skill. Experienced sandblasters recommend that new users experiment with glass sandblasting on scraps before attempting the main project.
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